WIUM Local
(2008-09-13)
Much of the Gazebo Arts Festival was moved indoors to the building bought by the West Central Illinois Arts Center.
Much of the Gazebo Arts Festival was moved indoors to the building recently bought by the West Central Illinois Arts Center. Macomb-based ceramics artist Dean Rockwell says it gave people a chance to see what that abandoned storefront can now become.
Rockwell calls the building a beautiful spot where plenty of art can be shown. He hopes this will help the WCIAC draw some financial support.
A few artists remained in Chandler Park. Organizers of the festival set up a large tent for them.
One of those in the park is Mary Beth St. Clair. She's a jewelry maker from Wyaconda, Missouri.
St. Clair praised arts festival organizers for their efforts in dealing with a difficult situation. She says they "bent over backwards" to make sure the festival was held.
St. Clair has displayed at the Gazebo Arts Festival for a number of years. She says it's a beautiful festival with an easy-going crowd.
You can listen to interviews with artists Dean Rockwell and Mary Beth St. Clair by clicking on the audio button.
Additional information:
*Saturday's performances at the Al Sears Jazz Festival were also scheduled to be held in Chandler Park, but were also moved indoors because of the rain. They instead took place across the street at Sapphire's Restaurant and Ruby Lounge. © Copyright 2009, wium
